
Meals By Genet
Ethiopian
1043 S Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019, United States
OUR SCORE

Accolades
- Featured in the Michelin Guide for Los Angeles
- Recognized by the late Los Angeles Times food critic Jonathan Gold as one of the 101 Best Restaurants
- Named in LA Weekly's Essential 99 Restaurants
- Rated as one of Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat
- Included in Eater's 38 Essential Los Angeles Restaurants
Restaurant Summary
Meals By Genet is a renowned restaurant located in the vibrant Little Ethiopia district of Los Angeles, a culinary destination that offers a unique and authentic Ethiopian dining experience. The restaurant is the brainchild of chef and owner Genet Agonafer, who has poured her passion for Ethiopian cuisine and her meticulous attention to detail into every aspect of the establishment.
Upon entering Meals By Genet, guests are greeted by the warm ambiance, characterized by its intimate setting, subdued lighting, and the inviting aromas of exotic spices that fill the air. The decor is an elegant balance of traditional Ethiopian elements and modern design, creating a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere that appeals to a diverse clientele including food connoisseurs, cultural enthusiasts, and local epicureans.
The menu is a reflection of Ethiopia's rich culinary heritage, featuring an array of meticulously prepared dishes that showcase the depth and complexity of the country's flavors. One of the standout dishes is Doro Wot, a spicy chicken stew simmered to perfection with berbere spice, onions, garlic, and a boiled egg, traditionally served with injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread that is a staple in Ethiopian gastronomy.
For vegetarian diners, the restaurant offers a selection of mouthwatering options, such as the Misir Wot, which consists of red lentils cooked in a savory blend of berbere sauce and aromatic herbs. Another favorite is the Gomen, a dish of tenderly cooked collard greens flavored with garlic and ginger, providing a refreshing and nutritious complement to the more robust flavors of the main courses.
The Kitfo is another highlight for adventurous diners. This Ethiopian delicacy is made from finely chopped prime beef, seasoned with mitmita (a spicy chili powder) and niter kibbeh (a clarified butter infused with herbs and spices), and it's served either raw or slightly cooked, based on preference. The Kitfo is often accompanied by a side of ayib, a homemade cottage cheese, and gomen, to balance the dish's richness.
To further enhance the dining experience, Meals By Genet also boasts a carefully curated selection of wines, with options chosen to complement the bold flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. The attentive staff are knowledgeable about the menu and are always happy to guide guests through the selections and suggest wine pairings.
Finishing the meal on a sweet note, the restaurant provides traditional Ethiopian coffee, known as buna, which is freshly roasted, ground, and brewed in a clay pot, providing the perfect aromatic conclusion to a memorable dining experience.
Meals By Genet is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that invites diners to explore the tastes and traditions of Ethiopian cuisine, all within the bustling city of Los Angeles. It stands as a testament to Chef Genet's dedication to her craft and to providing an exceptional dining experience steeped in authenticity and flavor.
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